Application of hierarchically porous metal-organic frameworks in heterogeneous catalysis: A review

Abstract

Hierarchically porous metal-organic frameworks (H-MOFs) with micro-, meso- and macropores have emerged as a popular class of crystalline porous materials that have attracted extensive interests, and they have been studied in diverse applications, especially in heterogeneous catalysis. The hierarchical structures enable sufficient diffusion and accessibility to the active sites of the molecules and permit the encapsulation of catalytic guest molecules to exploit more possibilities with enhanced catalytic performance. In this review, we have summarized the recent representative developments of H-MOFs in the field of heterogeneous catalysis, which includes oxidation reaction, hydrogenation reaction, and condensation reaction. Emphasis is placed on the multiple functions of hierarchical structures, and the catalytic activity, selectivity, stability, recyclability, etc. of the industrial utility of H-MOFs. Finally, the prospects and challenges of H-MOFs in heterogeneous catalysis and the remaining issues in this field are presented.